Cafe wrecked in arson

POLICE and fire investigators sifted through the wreckage of a Heaviley cafe after it was destroyed in an arson attack. The interior of Hallam Snack Bar, on Hallam Street, Heaviley, was wrecked in the inferno that was started on Thursday night at 10pm and CID officers think it could have been specifically targeted. Witnesses saw two men fleeing from the scene after the cafe's windows were smashed and petrol thrown inside. Bars protecting the windows had been bent back.

POLICE and fire investigators sifted through the wreckage of a Heaviley cafe after it was destroyed in an arson attack.

The interior of Hallam Snack Bar, on Hallam Street, Heaviley, was wrecked in the inferno that was started on Thursday night at 10pm and CID officers think it could have been specifically targeted.

Witnesses saw two men fleeing from the scene after the cafe's windows were smashed and petrol thrown inside. Bars protecting the windows had been bent back.

As fire crews battled the flames added danger was posed from the electrics and a potential explosion of gas canisters used for cooking.

Firefighter Ian Spaver said: "When we arrived the fire was fully developed with flames coming through all the windows and the roof well alight.

"It took two hours to get under control and the cafe was almost completely destroyed."

Police scene of crime officers were called and eye-witnesses describe two men in balaclavas and dark clothing, one carrying a petrol can, running off through Hallam Park. Further witnesses are now being sought.

Kevin Dolan, from Stockport CID, said: "There is major structural damage and on the face of it this appears to be a targeted attack.

"It is going to cause serious financial harm to the cafe owner. We are treating this very seriously as the fire could have spread and there was a danger to passers-by from the gas canisters."